This is just kind of an arbitrary comment; it doesn’t necessarily warrant a reply (unless you wanna agree or disagree).
I just wanted to say how much I love the big diecast metal Ecto-1 that Ertl released in 2003. They must have known something we didn’t; or someone at Ertl is a big GB fan, 'cause I totally didn’t see that toy coming.
But I just love the attention to detail they gave to our favorite '59 Caddy. From the bent-forward attenae to the rack in the back for the proton packs, it’s just a great little replica. It’s metal content is so much as to make it weighty, and you gotta love the working steering column and the rubber white-lined tires. Plus, it generally still goes for a pretty reasonable price. So, if you love the Ecto-1, you should own this toy. It’s a gem.
However, I’ve never bought one of the Ecto-1 or Ecto-1A model kits. I assume alot of people on this site have; is the level of detail any higher on the model kits than the diecast toy? I’m referring to the level of detail straight out of the box; you can always add more parts to a plastic model. 
My roommate bought one of these to use as a reference when I built my ecto replica.
While the cadillac body itself is really spiffy, the parts that make it an ectomobile are far from accurate in terms of scale, placement, and what items actually exist on the roof.
Are you referring to the model kit or the diecast toy as being inaccurate?
They want $40-50 for one of those at my local hobby store.
Yikes, that is a little steep. I got mine for $18.00.
So, in other words, I guess I should buy one of the model kits. As much as I love the diecast metal one, if the model kits are more accurate and detailed, then I suppose I’ll be hopping on eBay.
Huh. I really thought the diecast was pretty accurate. Then again, if you say you tried to use it as a template and came up short, then maybe I should check out one of the model kits. In the end, I just want an accurate-as-possible scale replica. I truly love the Ecto-1 and want the best replica of it I can find.
Thanks for your opinions! I really do want to hear what you guys think about the diecast and the model Ecto-1.
:walterpeck:
Actually, now that you mention it, the gear on the top of the diecast Ecto-1 does indeed seem way too small. The pictures I’ve seen of the gear on top of the model kits does seem more true-to-life scale.
So, I guess to amend what I originally said, it still is a nice big metal replica of the Ecto-1, but it indeed is not 100% screen-accurate. And yeah, don’t spend $40 or $50 on it, either. If you can find it for $20-$30 it is worth it. I still think it’s a cool toy.
I’ll still be buying a model kit, though.
Check the scales of each, buy both, then swap the rack onto the die-cast model.
I am surprised no one on these forums has done this, especially with all the Magnum-love goin’ on.
BTW, I just wanted to say to boomerjinks that his Outback Ectomobile is truly awesome. I have a Subaru Forester myself, and have made quite a few drawings of my little SUV as an Ectowagon. He went and did it, though.
Awesome.
From the moment i bought the die cast model, i knew some of the things wernt acurate: the liscense plate, the satellite dish, the instruments are too small, and theres no ectoplasmice residue over-flow drain(even though it reads"ectoplasmic residue overflow drain do not inhaile vapors" on the passenger side). I my self pay huge attention to detail, but by no means am i mad or upset! its still a great model to own…on a some what related topic… the ecto-1a model is missing the yellow and black weather bouy thing…i know im a freak!
